3331: Beyond the Helpdesk: How Zendesk Is Reshaping CX with AI

What happens when a customer service platform stops thinking like a vendor and starts operating like a partner? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Andrew Lawson, EVP and GM for Zendesk Europe, to explore how the company is redefining the future of customer experience through AI, innovation, and a customer-first mindset.

Zendesk may be a global name, but its European roots and strategic growth across the continent tell a story of evolution. From its founding in Copenhagen to becoming a powerhouse that supports over 100,000 customers globally, Zendesk has remained focused on one thing: being the best in customer service. Andrew and I unpack how this commitment translates into real-world outcomes, from faster resolution times to dynamic partnerships with top UK brands like Tesco, Next, and Liberty London.

One of the standout themes of our discussion is the company’s investment in Agentic AI, designed to handle up to 80 percent of customer interactions while leaving high-touch cases to human agents. We also dive into Zendesk’s outcome-based pricing model, a shift that aligns success with resolution rather than licenses or agent seats. Andrew offers insights into why this change reflects a broader market expectation for ROI-driven platforms.

We also touch on the company’s five acquisitions over the last 18 months, including Local Measure, and how these moves strengthen Zendesk’s capabilities in the CCAS space and deepen integrations with platforms like AWS Connect. As AI continues to shape customer and employee experiences, the conversation explores not just the technology but also the challenges, especially around execution, platform stability, and cybersecurity.

So, what should business leaders be doing right now to balance rapid AI adoption with responsible deployment? How are enterprise expectations evolving in the face of economic pressure and customer demand? And what does it mean to lead in customer service when the rules are changing fast? Tune in to hear Zendesk’s perspective from the frontlines of transformation.